Three years ago we had a construction boom that made us contractors feel like we had struck gold, or won the lottery. I remember then telling my team, that this would not last, and that the “contractors that took care of their clients, would still be around after the smoke had settled.” Well the smoke has definitely settled. And unfortunately, we have lost quite a few contractors here in the valley. These economic times have really put a strain on all of us, and especially the people in the construction industry.
But here at Alexon Design, we like to say that the glass that is almost empty, is still half full. And we will continue to stay positive. There’s no doubt that we have had to adapt to the economic times, but we have continued to stay busy by being passionate about what we do, being honest with our clients, and installing quality landscapes in the greater Phoenix area.
When hiring a landscaping contractor, there are just five, but very important questions you need to ask your contractor, and ask yourself.
1.) We ask this question a lot to our clients when they call in. “How did you hear about us? Well ask yourself, how you heard about the contractor you are interviewing. Seriously, the source of that recommendation means a lot. Was it a family member? a friend? A co-worker that you find to be a knwledgable person? These sources are pretty credible. What if it was a neighbor that you don’t know very well. Or a co-worker that you have nothing in common with. These might not be credible sources.
2.) After your first interview with a possible contractor, ask yourself if you think that person / company is capable, experienced, and trustworthy. Ask yourself if you like that person, or at least feel comfortable with that person. Your first reaction is usually the right reaction.
3.) If you can say yes to above, you can then move on to ask for referrals, and to see their work. If the contractor will not take you to at least a couple of residences, that will tell you a lot about their quality of work, or their ability to build relationships.
The next two questions are my favorite to ask. One to ask your contractor, and one to ask yourself,
4.) This will work whether your asking a sales / designer, or the owner of the company. “What is the name of the foreman that will be doing my project? What is the name of your superintendant?” Pay very close attention to their reaction and answer. If it is not quick, clear, and precise, have some reservations. The reason I bring this up is because I used to work for a seemingly successful company here in the valley. I worked there for 17 months and we went through 12 supers, and 5 crews. Our construction team was like a revolving door. It was like every other week was the “landscape trading deadline”. Meanwhile I had new construction starting with crews that we had no idea of their capabilities or work ethic. How would you like to sign a $30,000.00 landscape contract, and have a “rookie” crew show up to do the project?
5.) While remaining realistic… If budget wasn’t a concern,ask yourself which contractor you would rather do your project. If that contractor is a little over budget, let him know and give him a chance to work with you. If that contractor has passed the previous tests, let the contractor know. Because if that contractor is anything like us at Alexon Design, he / she will work with you and your budget. And you can sleep at night knowing that your recent landscaping investment was not a risky one.
And always check the Registrar of Contractors (ROC) about their business record. Any complaints should always throw up a red flag.
We hope you contact us for your landscaping needs, and if not, we wish you luck on your landscaping project.
Thank you,
TJ Wilcoxson
Alexon Design and Landscaping
